SIU members who have sailed on missions supporting U.S. and allied forces in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom stand ready to mobilize again whenever their nation calls. That message surfaced time after time during casual shipboard interviews that took place in late January aboard three Seafarers-contracted vessels in Baltimore (the Cape Washington, Cape Wrath and USNS Mendonca).
Members stated that in their respective experiences aboard ship, individual opinions about the war in Iraq are as varied as what one probably would find in most other workplaces. To a man, however, they emphasized that there is nothing short of unanimous commitment to delivering the goods – on time, efficiently, wherever and whenever needed.
Recertified Bosun David James has made a dozen trips to the Middle East aboard SIU-crewed military support ships since OIF began, including one voyage that spanned more than six months.
“We know we’re America’s fourth arm of defense,” James stated. “SIU members are here to support the troops, period. As mariners, I think we all understand that we’re vital to national security.”
He and other Seafarers mentioned that there are some obvious things that distinguish the OIF/OEF missions from a regular cargo run. They include the materiel itself, the multiple checkpoints heading into port and the military security teams that normally board the ships at some point along the way.
Shipboard discussions are different, too.
“The war is always a topic when you’re headed to Iraq, and the conversation gets more in-depth as you take on the security team and get closer,” said Recertified Steward Bob Mensching.
Recertified Bosun Rick James said that even while vessels such as the Washington, Wrath and Mendonca remain in reduced operating status between activations, mariners talk about possible upcoming duties. “At our safety meetings, it’s a daily topic – availability, the war, our readiness,” he said. “Each person has different political views, but we all know we’re a vital part of supporting the armed forces. We look forward to bringing the troops home when the job is done.”
Electrician Eric Mentzer pointed out that there is plenty of interaction between the crew and the security teams on many voyages. “A lot of people on the ships become friends with them,” he said. “The last two teams in particular were really cool guys. They’ve got families at home just like we do.”
“Everybody gets to know each other. These are tight quarters,” said QMED George Murphy.
QMED Bob Oppel has made four voyages in support of the current military operations, with the first two lasting a combined nine months.
“The first couple of trips, everyone was gung ho,” he recalled. “Since then it has seemed more routine, although everyone’s just as focused on doing their job. It’s a more serious atmosphere (than a commercial run) and definitely a little different.”
AB Mrimri Farah described the delivery of materiel to U.S. troops abroad as “very important,” and added that he is proud to have helped transport humvees and other cargo “that were badly needed at the time. Our guys in Iraq were very happy to see those.”
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